Honoring Lives: Sage Ni’Ja Whitson’s Memorial for Black Trans Individuals

Between 2021 and 2025, Sage Ni’Ja Whitson, a Black nonbinary artist, visited 91 locations across 15 states in the United States where trans, gender nonconforming, or intersex individuals had died, either by murder or suicide. This journey culminated in the exhibition "These Waking Glories," currently displayed at the California African American Museum (CAAM) in Los Angeles. The exhibition features a series of 90 pedestals, each commemorating a deceased individual with a jar of essence created from materials collected at the respective sites, alongside a velvet stole bearing the name of the honored person.

The Guardian

Whitson’s artistic practice involved conducting ceremonies at each site, which included collecting materials and performing rites that honored the deceased. They emphasized the importance of dialoguing with local transgender communities, facilitating story-sharing circles that celebrated the lives of Black trans, gender nonconforming, and intersex individuals. These gatherings often intersected with local resilience efforts, such as fundraisers and community events, fostering a network of support and remembrance.

The Guardian

The exhibition arrives at a critical time when the Human Rights Campaign has identified an "epidemic" of violence against trans individuals, particularly affecting Black trans women. Whitson noted the dual nature of death currently faced by trans communities, stating, “Now when trans people are experiencing a government attempt to erase our identities, it’s another kind of death.” This sentiment reflects the broader societal challenges and systemic oppression faced by trans individuals, exacerbated by hostile governmental policies.

The Guardian

Cameron Shaw, executive director and chief curator of CAAM, expressed the museum's commitment to supporting Black artistic practices that foster healing and complexity. Whitson articulated the emotional toll of their work, acknowledging the draining nature of the project but affirming its importance: “Building the spiritual vitality of trans communities – of Black trans communities – is worthy work that’s important to our survival.”

The Guardian

While Whitson's work has been widely praised for its emotional depth and community engagement, some critics argue that the focus on memorialization may inadvertently highlight the violence rather than the resilience of trans communities. Whitson, however, aims to center the spirit of memory and community rather than glorifying violence.

The Guardian

• “It was very challenging in ways that I’m continuing to mend from and rest with,” — Sage Ni’Ja Whitson, Artist

The Guardian

• “Supporting this work through CAAM’s residency program reflects the Museum’s ongoing commitment to Black artistic practices that hold complexity, expand boundaries, and create frameworks for healing,” — Cameron Shaw, CAAM Executive Director

The Guardian

Whitson plans to continue their work, emphasizing the need for spiritual traditions within Black trans communities as a vital aspect of survival. The ongoing residency at CAAM provides a platform for further artistic exploration and community engagement, ensuring that the stories of those honored are not forgotten.

The Guardian